On the recordFebruary 15, 2022
I rise today to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the town of Island Falls, ME. As one who was born and raised in Aroostook County, it is a great pleasure to celebrate the generations of industrious and caring people who have made Island Falls such a wonderful place to live, work, and raise families. Incorporated on February 27, 1872, Island Falls is a small town with a rich history. For thousands of years, the west branch of the Mattawamkeag River was the hunting grounds of the Micmac and Maliseet Native American Tribes. Permanent settlement began in earnest when the long-disputed border between the Aroostook region of Maine and British New Brunswick finally was determined in 1842. The early settlers created a vibrant community. They cleared farmland and, with the river and falls providing power, established lumber and grain mills. The first school, built in 1859, also served as a church and meeting house. With the river, pristine lakes, and spectacular views of Mt. Katahdin, Island Falls has long been a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With William Sewell, the son of one of the first settlers as his guide, young Theodore Roosevelt often visited Island Falls to hunt, fish, hike, and canoe. Bible Point State Historic Site marks the location where the future President would sit in quiet contemplation on his Sunday mornings in Maine. Today, Island Falls is a premier four-season destination for outdoor recreation.…
Source
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